S6Ep33: The Christmas Elephant

This week hosts Mike Nawrocki and Sarah Humphrey talk with returning guest Jess Wolstenholm about the new Minnow release, Laugh and Grow Bible for Kids Family Advent Devotional.Developed by Minno, the #1 source of streaming Christian content for kids and families, the Laugh and Grow Bible for Kids Family Advent Devotional guides readers through the timeless biblical story of Christmas—from Isaiah’s prophecy to the arrival of the Messiah to the visit of the Wise Men. Each week of this interactive guide features devotionals aligned with traditional advent themes: hope, peace, joy, and love, fostering a meaningful family experience leading up to Christmas.We are thrilled to introduce the Laugh and Grow Bible for Kids Family Advent Devotional as a tool to help families prepare their hearts to celebrate the arrival of Jesus, said Jess Wolstenholm, Minno’s VP of Education and Research. This new devotional book embodies Minno’s commitment to bring God’s goodness and love to life for children and families, offering a simple rhythm they can fit into their busy holiday season."---------------------------------------------------------------------------The BIble for Kids is now a 501c3 non-profit and we'd love to have you join us in our mission of reaching kids with the message of the Bible. Our NEW store now features "Pay What You Can" pricing on many items with more coming soon. Visit TheBibleforKids.com to donate or learn more today!The Bible for Kids Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org

This week hosts Mike Nawrocki and Sarah Humphrey welcome back singer, songwriter and author Andrew Peterson to give us an update on The Wingfeather Saga and talk about his new picture book, The Prince of Yorsha Doon.The Prince of Yorsha Doon tells the story of Safiki—already beloved by thousands of Wingfeather fans—as he emerges from his life of solitary freedom and becomes an accidental hero. Life on the streets of the bustling and mysterious city of Yorsha Doon can be hard, but Safiki loves being independent, free from the complications of personal relationships. But when he bumps into a very strange stranger who’s being far too conspicuous with the valuable book he’s carrying, Safiki finds himself at the center of a noble but foolhardy rescue and discovers that he can be braver than he imagined—and that friendship might be worth the risk after all.---------------------------------------------------------------------------The BIble for Kids is now a 501c3 non-profit and we'd love to have you join us in our mission of reaching kids with the message of the Bible. Our NEW store now features "Pay What You Can" pricing on many items with more coming soon. Visit TheBibleforKids.com to donate or learn more today!The Bible for Kids Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org

This week hosts Mike Nawrocki and Sarah Humphrey talk to a very special guest, Mike's brother, Mark Nawrocki about his work with the ministry, Healing Waters.The Healing Waters Ministry builds holistic clean water solutions and spreads God’s love in at-risk communities around the world, empowering people not just to survive, but to thrive – physically, socially, and spiritually.After two decades of serving in executive leadership roles, Mark's personal battle with cancer prompted a profound shift in his career aspirations. Searching for a position with impact and meaning, he discovered Healing Waters International, a faith-based nonprofit dedicated to establishing community-wide water systems in some of the most remote and impoverished regions, where access to safe water is scarce. Mark now leverages his extensive marketing and communications expertise as Healing Waters’ Director of Development, serving there for almost five years. During his time at Healing Waters, the organization has evolved to pioneering large scale water solutions in some of the world’s toughest areas, ultimately providing safe water for men, women and children who only dreamed it could be a reality. Beyond his professional endeavors,Mark is a devoted husband, father, and newly minted grandparent.The Healing Waters Ministry builds holistic clean water solutions and spreads God’s love in at-risk communities around the world, empowering people not just to survive, but to thrive – physically, socially, and spiritually.

This week hosts Mike Nawrocki and Sarah Humphrey talk with author, speaker Cynthia Baker about Helipad vs Helicopter Parenting.Cynthia is a highly-rated author, coach and speaker with over 22 years of experience working with people.Cynthia loves helping people get “unstuck” so they can pursue a passionate life that brings joy. She loves inviting people to experience the freedom that God has for their lives through her workshops, webinars and speaking & coaching engagements.Cynthiabaker.com---------------------------------------------------------------------------The BIble for Kids is now a 501c3 non-profit and we'd love to have you join us in our mission of reaching kids with the message of the Bible. Our NEW store now features "Pay What You Can" pricing on many items with more coming soon. Visit TheBibleforKids.com to donate or learn more today!The Bible for Kids Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org

This week hosts Sarah Humphrey and Mike Nawrocki talk with author Maria Antonia about her new book, The Christmas Elephant.Ellie wants to be an elephant in the Christmas play but her know-it-all sister says she’ll ruin everything. When Baby Jesus goes missing, Ellie must find him, or the play will be ruined (but not because Ellie is an elephant)!Ellie thinks outside the box. She stands her ground and remains in her elephant costume even when her older sister—and director of this year’s Christmas play— demands she change into a sheep costume. The theme of standing up for your own uniqueness sends a subtle message to children that they can fit in anywhere if they persevere and don’t give in to peer pressure. Ellie’s approach to standing her ground is entertaining and empowering. There is also a teaching moment for the bossy sister who comes to see that everything doesn’t have to work out the way she planned in order to be wonderful. The Christmas Elephant is an ideal addition for family, preschool, elementary school, and community library Christmas picture book collections.This unique holiday book is perfect for:Children ages 3-8Sharing the story of Christmas through a memorable narrative text and engaging, whimsical illustrationsChristmas gifts, including stocking stuffers and church ministry outreachInspiring discussion and dialogue with parents, grandparents, friends, and teachersChristmas celebrations, church ministry outreach, and Advent discussionsSparking age-appropriate conversations about Christmas, self-esteem, Jesus’ birth, and helping others. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------The BIble for Kids is now a 501c3 non-profit and we'd love to have you join us in our mission of reaching kids with the message of the Bible. Our NEW store now features "Pay What You Can" pricing on many items with more coming soon. Visit TheBibleforKids.com to donate or learn more today!The Bible for Kids Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org

This week hosts Mike Nawrocki and Sarah Humphrey talkw ith author Jennifer Wilder Morgan about her book, I'm Alive, Dear Mama.A precious love letter from unborn babies to their mothers.I’m Alive, Dear Mama is a fully illustrated book that shares a sweet commentary on how the baby explores with wonder the physical, emotional, and spiritual concepts of life through Mama’s daily activities and travels. With hope and expectation, the child can’t wait to experience the promise and fullness of earthly life with the family.Beautiful art fills the pages, celebrating the miracle and journey of human life and its true, priceless value, from conception through adulthood. Every person's journey begins before they are born, and this book helps readers of all ages remember the unborn child is living, listening, and learning.Features included-Color illustrations on every pageParenting discussion questionsActivities for families to use togetherFamilies of different cultures, environments, and economic classes are represented, demonstrating the larger journey of human life around the world.Makes a heartwarming baby shower gift or gift for parents-to-be!---------------------------------------------------------------------------The BIble for Kids is now a 501c3 non-profit and we'd love to have you join us in our mission of reaching kids with the message of the Bible. Our NEW store now features "Pay What You Can" pricing on many items with more coming soon. Visit TheBibleforKids.com to donate or learn more today!The Bible for Kids Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org

This week hosts Mike Nawrocki, and Sarah Humphries talk with author Clarissa Roll about her new book, Hurt Help Hope: A Conversation About Teen Grief.Hurt Help Hope is a sensitive grief guide written for teens by a grieving teen and her mother. Together they offer support, advice, and understanding for navigating life after loss.After the death of a loved one, anyone can be caught up in a whirlwind of emotions and unanswered questions. Hurt Help Hope divides lists of relatable questions into five categories covering topics like the logistics of funerals, how your body copes with grief, how it affects your faith in God, how to manage feelings, and more!Features:Credibility and vulnerability of the authors: The authors aren’t writing about grief from a theoretical or clinical place – they are walking through it themselves. Their deeply genuine and empathetic words will comfort readers like a friend.Written by a teen and her mom for grieving teens. Fiona shares her experience grieving the death of her father as a teenager. Clarissa shares insights from her family's life as they learned to live without their dad.Question-and-answer format: Each chapter is made up of questions teens may have as they experience grief. The authors don’t write in a clinical or theoretical way, but in a conversational tone, sharing what they’ve learned like an encouraging friend.Grounded in Jesus: There are encouraging truths about our hope in Jesus and how our theology as Christians can be a great comfort in the face of death.An excellent balance of theology and helpful, practical advice.Practical advice: This book is brimming with practical, day-to-day suggestions of how to handle grief. These include:a list of tips to promote better sleepwhat to do when you’re experiencing anger, confusion, or even numbnesswhat to expect at funeralsa list of insensitive things people might say in the face of lossideas about how to respond to comments like thoseand many more!Engaging quizzes, charts, and graphs help to processes fears, feelings, and all the hard things.---------------------------------------------------------------------------The BIble for Kids is now a 501c3 non-profit and we'd love to have you join us in our mission of reaching kids with the message of the Bible. Our NEW store now features "Pay What You Can" pricing on many items with more coming soon. Visit TheBibleforKids.com to donate or learn more today!The Bible for Kids Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org

In this episode hosts Sarah Humphrey and Mike Narocki talk with former NFL football player and now author Matt Forte about his new book, My Hair Can.Celebrate what your hair can do! This joyful, rhyming picture book invites diverse girls and boys to embrace their natural hair with an uplifting reminder of their self-worth.My hair has roots from many places under the sun,telling the story of my ancestors and where I come from.I can shake my hair like a baby with a rattle,or cut it all off to support my friend’s battle.What can your hair do? From cool curls to crisp fades, from long locs, to beaded braids, bright joyful illustrations of diverse children burst from each page inspiring self-love and positive self-esteem. But hair love is more than knots, locs, and mohawks. Discover the power of cutting your hair in solidarity with a sick friend or celebrating your heritage with hairstyles from your ancestral roots.My Hair Can is an encouraging reminder for young readers about loving their hair, respecting differences, and celebrating their God-given uniqueness.Features rhyming text perfect for read-aloud bookRepresents hairstyles of boys and girlsBuilds positive affirmations, confidence, and self-esteemEmphasizes hair connection to ancestral rootsEmpowers solidarity with friendsHighlights each child’s God-given uniquenessIncludes delightful and colorful illustrations“Forte’s picture book reminds kids to not only see their hair as wonderful creations but also to see their peers as uniquely created too. It’s a call for kids to cut through the lies of the enemy with a thankful, joyful heart and to be confident in God’s extraordinary design.” –Heriloom Book Club Review Excerpt---------------------------------------------------------------------------The BIble for Kids is now a 501c3 non-profit and we'd love to have you join us in our mission of reaching kids with the message of the Bible. Our NEW store now features "Pay What You Can" pricing on many items with more coming soon. Visit TheBibleforKids.com to donate or learn more today!The Bible for Kids Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org

This week hosts Mike Nawrocki and Sarah Humphrey interview author Jayne Schooler about her new book; Caring for Kids from Hard Places.Why doesn’t he act his age? Why does she behave so impulsively? Why does he have meltdowns so often?There is always meaning behind behavior in all of us. It might be a behavioral reaction from something as simple as hunger or exhaustion. Or something far more serious – a triggered reaction to a traumatic, frightening experience.Children who have experienced early childhood neglect or trauma are often greatly impacted in developmental ways. Children in foster care or who are given up for adoption often deal with these kinds of negative early experiences and it can be difficult to know how to help. People who teach–either in school or children’s ministry often see these youngsters’ behavior as confusing and don’t understand why.In Caring for Kids from Hard Places, Jayne and David Schooler discuss the reasons behind why children and teens sometimes exhibit potentially disruptive behavior. Together, they offer practical strategies on training, equipping and resourcing staff and volunteers to provide a responsive environment for children with behavioral challenges. Caring for Kids from Hard Places includes:Insights on how to understand adverse childhood experiences (ACEs)Principles for creating a trauma-informed environmentStrategies for facilitating healingTips on how to create a sensory-smart classroomDiscover how to better love children from difficult backgrounds and pave their way for a better life.---------------------------------------------------------------------------The BIble for Kids is now a 501c3 non-profit and we'd love to have you join us in our mission of reaching kids with the message of the Bible. Our NEW store now features "Pay What You Can" pricing on many items with more coming soon. Visit TheBibleforKids.com to donate or learn more today!The Bible for Kids Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be visit www.ChristianParenting.org

This episode, Mike and Sarah talk with author C.E. White about her fun new picture book,Wilfred is a very fun dragon, but he doesn't like baths. As he gets bigger and bigger and BIGGER, nobody can make him take one!Mom and Dad say when things get too big for them, they pray!This book is a fun adventure in prayer that shows how God doesn't always answer prayers the way we think he will.C.E. White (Connie) is an author of middle-grade fantasy, children’s books, and Christian non-fiction for adults. Connie has worn many hats in her life—nanny, carpenter, artist, and business owner to name a few. She released her first book at the age of forty, and each book is a surprise adventure in where God is leading her. Her works are fueled by a lifetime love of both Jesus and reading, and she longs to inspire people of all ages with imagination and words of hope. Connie has a passion for helping people find the abundant life Christ offers. She lives happily in the mountains of North Georgia with her husband and two cats. More at www.cewhitebooks.com---------------------------------------------------------------------------The BIble for Kids is now a 501c3 non-profit and we'd love to have you join us in our mission of reaching kids with the message of the Bible. Our NEW store now features "Pay What You Can" pricing on many items with more coming soon. Visit TheBibleforKids.com to donate or learn more today!The Bible for Kids Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be visit www.ChristianParenting.org